Harold W. Clinch Sr., 88

Harold Clinch Sr.

GORHAM — Harold Willis Clinch Sr., 88, passed away at his home, surrounded by his family on Friday, Feb. 24, 2017.

The second son of Walter C. and Olive E. (Hoyt) Clinch, he was born in Portland on Feb. 21, 1929. He spent his early years on Munjoy Hill, before moving to Gorham at the age of 12. He served his country in the Merchant Marines during WWII, and in the Army during the Korean War. He married Eleanor J. Hammond on Dec. 4, 1953. They settled in Gorham to raise their five children. He worked for University of Southern Maine for 25 years as executive housekeeper. One of his hobbies was harness racing, and he enjoyed “playing the ponies” at all the area racetracks.

He was predeceased by his wife, Eleanor Clinch of 49 years; and by his brother, Albert J. Clinch II.

He is survived by his sons, Harold Clinch Jr. of Gorham, Mark Clinch of Gorham and Albert Clinch of Rangeley; his daughters, Brenda Clinch of Maryland and Cynthia Look of Raymond; 18 grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service with military honors will be held in the spring, date and time to be determined. Services are under the care of Dolby Funeral Chapel, 76 State St., Gorham.

Please visit www.dolbyfuneralchapels.com to view Harold’s online tribute page and to sign his guestbook.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the: Eleanor and Harold Clinch Scholarship Fund, MSAD 55, 137 South Hiram Road, Hiram, ME 04041-3636.